After spending nearly a decade in the American Athletic Conference, the Bearcats were officially welcomed into the Big 12 Conference this weekend!
Moving to a new conference with a first-year head coach could be challenging and will require patience as the program adjusts to Big 12 play.
The jump to the Big 12 represents a significant step forward for Cincinnati as they formally joined one of the premier conferences on Saturday.
With a determined program in place, the Bearcats have a chance to make noise in the Big 12 and secure bowl eligibility for a sixth straight season.
The best is yet to come.
— Cincinnati Bearcats (@GoBEARCATS) July 1, 2023
Welcome to Day One.#Bearcats | @Big12Conference pic.twitter.com/vovAca1Ph4
Cincinnati Football: Bearcats officially enter Big 12 Conference ahead of upcoming campaign
Cincinnati is set to face a more difficult schedule in the Big 12, competing against established programs like Baylor, Oklahoma and more!
Even though the offense will look differently next season, the Bearcats will aim to put up points against the conference’s top defenses.
Scott Satterfield’s team will develop new rivalries against schools within the Big 12, while reuniting with former rival West Virginia.
The Bearcats defense has been a formidable force for years but they will meet new challenges in a conference that is known for explosive offenses.
Since 1819, we have forged our own path, not through circumstance or luck, but through hard work and determination. We are proud to officially join the @Big12Conference and take our #Bearcats spirit to a new level. The excitement at UC has never been greater. pic.twitter.com/n5UPyUxLGk
— University of Cincinnati (@uofcincy) July 1, 2023
Cincinnati Football: Bearcats reveal representatives for upcoming Big 12 Conference media day
Bearcats standouts Jowon Briggs, Dontay Corleone, Emory Jones and Deshawn Pace will represent the program at Big 12 Media Day this month.
Corleone is expected to compete for the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year as he hopes to build on a dominant redshirt freshman campaign.
Jones showed off his elite dual-threat ability during the spring scrimmage and should be named starting quarterback heading into fall camp.
Make sure to preview the inaugural campaign in the Big 12 Conference with a break down of the upcoming schedule and regular season opener!